World Cup 2018 | Sweden v South Korea Tips | 18th June 2018

GROUP F of the 2018 World Cup continues on Monday as Sweden meet South Korea in Nizhny Novgorod. Mark O’Haire shares his thoughts on the best betting angle.

Sweden v South Korea | Monday 18th June 2018, 13:00 | ITV

With Germany dominating the Group F Winner market, both Sweden and South Korea will know Monday’s meeting could have decisive consequences in their quest to reach the 2018 World Cup knockout stage.

Sweden, especially, will be looking to make a fast start. With over 80% of nations progressing after winning their opening encounter since 1998, the advantages of getting points on the board early are obvious and the Scandinavians should be capable of at least avoiding defeat here.

Janne Andersson’s side came through a devilishly difficult qualification pool and play-off, and while they may lack the star quality of yesteryear, make-up for it with a strong work ethic and organised, unified team.

The Blue Yellow’s main strength can be found in defence. The Swedes have scored just twice in their past seven outings but have silenced their opposition in six of their previous nine matches. Understandably, five of their most recent six games were settled by fewer than two goals.

Sweden double chance and Under 2.5 Goals

Andersson’s outfit are a rugged bunch that relish the physical aspect, particularly from set-pieces. Expect the Scandinavians to bombard South Korea’s box at every opportunity with Emil Forsberg’s delivery key.

I’d be surprised if Sweden fell here; their assets match-up with Korea’s weaknesses and the Taeguk Warriors arrive in Russia at one of their worst ebbs. Outside of Heung-min Son there’s very little to write home about and the Asian giants have suffered badly with pre-tournament injuries.

En-route to Russia, Korea lost in Iran, China and Qatar, and were held to 0-0 draws in to Syria and Uzbekistan. I’d expect the physically-dominant Swedish side to bully the underdogs here and grind out a positive result.